"Ain't Nothin' Like the Real Thing/You're All I Need to Get By" by Chris Christian and Amy Holland

Song#:  1157
Date:  08/28/1982
Debut:  88
Peak:  88
Weeks:  3
Genre:  Pop



Pop Bits:  Christian's self-titled album for the Boardwalk label included his Top 40 entry "I Want You, I Need You" (#37 pop, #8 AC). The album was loaded with guest stars including Cheryl Ladd (who sang backup on "I Want You"), Christopher Cross, and Frankie Valli. Among the guests was singer Amy Holland who joined Christian for this medley duet. Holland had her own hit in 1980 with the #22 "How Do I Survive." This single would hit the chart briefly and become the last pop chart entry for both artists.

ReduxReview:  These are two quality artist so it's a little surprising that this duet is so bland. The material is obviously great, but they can't compete with the originals (see below). The song kind of slumps along without much excitement or personality. It's certainly listenable, but it needed a lot more oomph to be a viable chart contender.

ReduxRating:  4/10

Trivia:  Double Shot!  1) Christian only recorded one album for Boardwalk. He got signed to the label thanks to his manager/friend, Robert Kardashian (yes, one of O.J. Simpson's lawyers and father of the reality Kardashian's), who introduced him to label head Neil Bogart.  2) This medley is made up of two compositions by Nicholas Ashford and Valerie Simpson. Both songs were originally recorded by Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell. Both songs were released in 1968 with "Ain't Nothing" peaking at #8 and "You're All" going a notch higher to #7. Both songs hit #1 on the R&B chart.

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